5th Ave Construction Notice

5th Ave Construction Notice – 8-3-2020

Construction Notice – 5th Avenue NW
Starting August 4th, 2020 the intersection of 5th Avenue NW and 2nd Street NW will be closed. The intersection will remain closed for the day while roadway preparation is completed.
The current detour route will remain in effect. The detour runs from Main Street to 9th Avenue NW and then back to 5th Avenue NW via 12th Street NW.
Updated maps for all road closures will be posted on the City of Valley City’s webpage https://www.valleycity.us/engineers/ when they are taking affect. If you have any questions regarding the project, please contact KLJ at (701)-845-4980.

President Dave Carlsrud

8/3/2020 Mayor’s Message

Hi Folks J

  • The 12th Annual Debbie Gabel Cancer Memorial Ride was held last week and I am told it generated around $10,000.00 for charity.  Great job folks!
  • Kudos to the Valley City Public Works Department.  Summer brings much additional work with construction, mowing grass, repairing streets, spraying for mosquitoes and all the everyday duties.  Organizing employees around work schedules, vacation schedules and “life’s demands” while completing the work is an art.
  • Congratulations on your retirement and thank you Dave Andersen for 12-years of dedicated service to the citizens of Valley City as Building and Fire Inspector.  The nature of the Building and Fire Inspector position necessitates much ordinance knowledge and many tough decisions; thank you for being there for us.
  • COVID-19 ….. Oh boy!  North Dakota is conducting record-breaking numbers of COVID-19 tests.  Tests are proving the virus is widespread in our state and is making a move in Barnes County.  People in their 20’s and 30’s represent the largest number of positive tests though the 40’s group is a close 3rdEVERYONE, be careful!
  • Summer Nights on Central took place last Thursday after missing the week before due to a COVID-19 exposure.  Great job, thank you to all who worked on the event, it was set up nicely.
  • “The Sheyenne RiverFest” activities run August 1 – 8.  For information go to www.hellovalley.com
  • A number of trees are showing pre-mature yellowing of leaves.  It could be Iron Chorosis, for further information, Google (Iron Chlorosis) .  Our NDSU Extension Agent, Randy Grueneich, is a great resource; randy.grueneich@ndsu.edu
  • “The past is prophetic in that it asserts loudly that wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrows”                           (Martin Luther King Jr.)

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

7/30/2020 Special City Commission Meeting

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 7:00 AM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public are not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online

Password: R9qvjU or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 917 5611 8580 Password 528253

Call to Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

New Business

  • Continue discussing first draft of 2021 Budget. (City Administrator Crawford & Finance Director Richter)
  • Approve 2021 Preliminary budget.

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Powell              Bishop             Carlsrud

Adjourn

7/29/2020 Special City Commission Meeting

Special City Commission Agenda

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 7:00 AM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public are not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/91887157013?pwd=NTc1NG5QQW1VNU5uRUF5VzVTUEVLUT09

Password: 9eRAAF or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 918 8715 7013Password 793869
 

Call to Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

New Business

  • Continue discussing first draft of 2021 Budget (City Administrator Crawford & Finance Director Richter)

Adjourn

President Dave Carlsrud

7/27/2020 Mayor’s Message

Greetings Everyone,

  • Wow, the number of virus cases just keeps climbing!  I wish there was something prophetic I could say to help you all understand what is happening with it.  The problem seems to be, no one has definite answers as this virus is new.  “We are plowing new ground” there is no history.   Barnes County is still doing pretty well so keep up your good social distancing efforts.
  • I had the privilege of meeting with Healthcare and Educational Leaders last week.  VCPS and VCSU have teams working diligently to find the safest ways for returning students to the classrooms.  A very challenging task.  That “new ground is being plowed” many decisions will be tough ones.  Please, as a community, let’s be patient, be grateful and be confident decisions will be based on the best information available.  A prayer could be appropriate.
  • While walking Valley City, it appears this will be a “bumper year” for apple production.  One danger would appear to be over production and broken trees. All trees require care, pruning can save your Apple Tree and produce more healthy fruit by providing light and air to the fruiting spurs.  Remember our NDSU Extension Agent, Randy Grueneich, is a great resource; randy.grueneich@ndsu.edu  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoCcC9Ll5nM
  • Saturday was, hot, humid and without much breeze. In spite of the aforementioned the 12th Annual Debbie Gabel Cancer Memorial Ride was held.  Numerous agencies serving people with cancer have and continue receiving monetary benefits from the event.  Thank you Rocky and the Thundering Saints.
  • In another “heat challenged” event, 16 teams competed in the Wiffle Ball World Series at Bob and Joni Bergan’s, Shane Roberts Field.  Chad Bergan, Pat Bresnahan and Trevor Christianson produced a first class event.  Tournament Directors presented a $2000.00 check to Andrea Nelson of the Sheyenne Valley Community Foundation, this year’s Hall of Fame Class was introduced, the Hi-Lite Dance Team performed, the AMVETS Color Guard presented the colors, Kensey Knight sang a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem and Minnesota Twin’s Announcer, Dick Bremer shared an introductory message to begin play.
  • “Oil all the wheels on your wagon, not just the squeaky one”  (Cowgirls’ Guide to Life)

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave Carlsrud

7/28/2020 Special City Commission Meeting

Special City Commission Agenda

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at 7:00 AM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public are not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/91887157013?pwd=NTc1NG5QQW1VNU5uRUF5VzVTUEVLUT09

Password: 9eRAAF or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 918 8715 7013Password 793869
 

Call to Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

New Business

  • Discuss first draft of 2021 Budget (City Administrator Crawford & Finance Director Richter)

Adjourn

07/21/2020 City Commission Minutes

The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public were not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/97914864324?pwd=WU9HcjJhSDVaZmwvRnQxQjVkWmlxZz09) Password 9PhqpQ or listen by calling (1 253 215 8782) Webinar ID: 979 1486 4324 Password 481130

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford (entered at 5:01), City Attorney Martineck, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

Approval of Agenda

Removed N2

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from July 7, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Mechanical Contactor License for Laney’s Inc.
  2. Approve Block off Street Application for the VC Chamber of Commerce on July 22nd for Crazy Daze.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion carried.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Ordinance

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance 1058, an Ordinance Creating Section 20-04.01 to extend City Sales, Use & Gross Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1058, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1062, an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 14-8-07 and 14-08-20 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to penalties for striking unattended motor vehicle and driving without liability insurance.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1062, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Resolution

Approve Resolution 2258, a resolution accepting bid and awarding contract for Permanent Flood Protection Erosion Mitigation Phase 1 (Woodland Park Riverview Drive).  (KLJ Engineer)

Chad Peterson from KLJ stated bids were open last Friday for project, two bids were received.  Low bid was Strata Corporation out of Grand Forks with a bid of $445,914.96 and Scherbenske Inc. out of Jamestown at $505,910.00.  These bids are under the Engineers estimate and KLJ recommends awarding the contract to Strata Corporation.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve Resolution No. 2258, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Permit for the Valley City Eagles Aerie 2192 on Central Ave-200 Block for Summer Nights on Central Event on 7/23/2020, 7/30/2020, 8/20/2020 and 8/27/2020.  Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the Special Alcohol Permit, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  The motion passed unanimously.

Census 2020 Report (Mayor Carlsrud/Fire Chief Magnuson) Fire Chief Magnuson thanked everybody who has already completed their census also.  Valley city is at 70% completed.  Census takers will be going door to door only to those who they show have not completed the census.  They will observer social distancing and will have a badge for identification.  Fire Chief Magnuson encouraged everyone to complete their census if they have not already.  The census takes place once every 10 years and is important information used to determine how much money is appropriated for the city and county to use for various projects and departments.  For each individual that does not complete the census we will lose approximately $19,000 over 10 years. Mayor Carlsrud added, “If you complete the census before, they won’t come knocking on your door.”

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported on meeting regarding the lights in the park.  Work was requested to start this fall.  After discussing with Marshall Senf the lights that were originally chosen matched the others in the Streetscape project but they direct the light more to the ground.  Marshall recommended the acorn shaped lights which would emit a brighter glow and also help with safety concerns.  Chad Peterson (KLJ) spoke with Tyler Jacobsen (VCPR) whose main concern was having glass in the park.  The acorn lights are polycarbonate, not glass, whereas the previous lights were glass so Tyler agreed the acorn lights would be the best decision.  Valley City Parks and Rec will need to sign a waiver stating the City can start on the project waiving the assessment notification process.

City Administrator Crawford went on to state she is continuing to meet with the department heads and discuss concerns and ideas, some of which have save us money.  We also had a meeting with the company that handles our uniforms and addressed the concerns we have been having and will continue to monitor that situation.

City Administrator Crawford stated she attended the rescue drill and it was very impressive and thanked them for the invite.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Attorney Martineck reported on the opening for the Operations Superintendent and the City Engineer position.  We did receive one internal application for the Operations Superintendent.  As long as he meets the minimum requirement we should be able to have that filled within the next week.  We received two full applications for the City Engineer position and will be discussing with the Commissioners and City staff on how to move forward with interviews for that position..

Deputy Auditor Klein reminded of the budget meetings next week.

Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson stated on 7/22/2020 it will have been one year since the recycling contract was signed.  The original benchmark was set at 700 tons, they surpassed that at 992 tons.  This year the benchmark will be set at 800 tons.  Along with that as part of the contract, the recycling fee we have collected we passed on $62,760 to aid the recycling effort. 

Building/Fire Inspector Andersen provided an update on the Love’s project stating work is moving forward.  The equipment for the College is moved in and they are starting to drive pilings.  The contractor for the Barnes County Jail was supposed to stop in for a permit but has not yet.  Building/Fire Inspector Andersen thanked everybody as this will be his last meeting before he retires.

Fire Chief Magnuson the water is extremely high in Valley with a possible crest of 13.5 tomorrow. Cautioned citizens that the river is high and the current is strong recommends with these conditions people avoid being near the river.

Chad Petersen Phase 3 of flood protection, the flood walls have been poured and they’re working on the caps now.  Projecting Phase 3 to be completed the middle of August. 

5th Ave NW, rain has slowed things a little bit but they have been able to continue on the underground work.  By the end of the week they should have all the utility work for Phase 1 completed.  Completion date for Phase 1 is August 15th, if we get some decent weather things should come together pretty quickly. 

Streetscape Phase 2 project, all changes were approved by DOT.  Project is currently scheduled for Oct 16th.  Final plans for bid openings are due to the DOT by August 7th

Commissioner Erickson reminded that the grass site west of the Transfer Station is open 24/7.  There will also be a curbside tree pick up the last Thursday and Friday in July and the last Thursday and Friday in September.  If you need to schedule a pick up call Public Works.

Commissioner Magnuson encouraged everyone to get out and the community events.  Crazy Daze Wednesday and the upcoming Summer Nights events.  We have also noticed some vandalism on utility boxes.  If you see this please call dispatch. Thanked Dave for all he has done.

President Carlsrud gave a shout out to all our city employees being busy with budgets and those in Public Works being busy with all the buyouts we’ve had and mowing.  It’s been a real challenge so please be patient, we are trying to catch up.  There has been a lot of additional work with the construction, our employees are scrambling and we appreciate all they are doing. Thanked Dave.

Meeting was adjourned at 5:28 PM

07/07/2020 City Commission Minutes

The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, July 7, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public were not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/97914864324?pwd=WU9HcjJhSDVaZmwvRnQxQjVkWmlxZz09) Password 9PhqpQ or listen by calling (1 253 215 8782) Webinar ID: 979 1486 4324 Password 481130

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

Approval of Agenda

Added Ordinance 1062

Remove Resolution 2258

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from June 23, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
  2. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $2,458,233.49.
  3. Approve Block off the Street Request for On the Move “Let’s Walk Valley City” Event on July 20, 2020 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 Pm at 4th Ave NE from 9th St NE to 6th Street NE

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion carried.

Public Comments

Gary Jacobson had received a concern from a citizen about the monthly water surcharge of $8.24 for multi-unit buildings. Currently the owner pays the consumption cost and each tenants pays the $8.24 surcharge. This charge has been in place for at least 30 years to make sure costs are being distributed to those receiving the benefit. A single family home has a smaller and less expensive meter going into the home where the multi-unit homes have a larger meter which is more expensive to purchase and maintain. If this monthly fee was removed there would need to be an increase to all residents to make up for this decrease in revenue.

Ordinance

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1060, an Ordinance Relating to amend and reenact Chapter 5 of Title 8 and Section 11-05-18 of the Valley City Municipal Code, relating to mobile vendors and transient merchants.

Attorney Martineck reviewed the ordinance and stated all recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Board have been adopted in this version. Commissioner Erickson moved to approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1060, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1061, an Ordinance to Adopt and Enact Section 1-01-15 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to Crime Victim Witness Fee

City Attorney Martineck reported that the City has imposed a crime victim witness fee in 2017, the section was repealed inadvertently during the recodification process and this ordinance will re-instate the section. There has been no change to the ordinance from the first reading. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1061, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance 1058, an Ordinance Creating Section 20-04.01 to extend City Sales, Use & Gross Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection.

Attorney Martineck stated this ordinance went to the vote of the citizens of Valley City in June and passed. Finance Director Richter stated the purpose of extending the sales tax is to have a revenue source to finance permanent flood protection through the Bank of North Dakota. These loans have a 30 year term. Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1058, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1062, an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 14-8-07 and 14-08-20 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to penalties for striking unattended motor vehicle and driving without liability insurance.

Attorney Martineck stated these amendments had previously been discussed by the Commission and need to be updated to be in compliance with NDCC. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1062, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Discuss job title for City Administrator position.

Commissioner Bishop stated there was discussion at the Finance Meeting regarding changing the title of City Administrator to City Manager. Commissioner Bishop moved to keep the title as City Administrator, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Commissioner Gulmon stated the citizens voted to keep the City Administrator position, it’s time for us all to support this position and move on in a positive manner. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Appointment for the Visitors Committee.

Finance Director Richter stated this position was advertised in the Times Record. Paige Bjornson expressed her interest in serving on the Visitors Committee, no other inquiries were received. Commissioner Gulmon moved to appoint Paige Bjornson to the Visitors Committee, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Property Tax exemption for Improvements to Residential Building at 905 9th Ave SE.

City Assessor Hansen submitted her recommendation to approve the tax exemption at 905 9th Ave SE for a 25’x 25’ addition that will add an estimated $60,000 of value. Finance Director Richter reminded the Commission that the tax exemption is only on the addition and would not affect the current tax revenue from this property. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the property tax exemption at 905 9th Ave SE, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Assistant Public Works (Operations) Superintendent Position for Succession Planning. Attorney Martineck reviewed the succession plan when Jeff Differding retires. The plan moving forward would be to post the position internally, go through the interview process, and promote the person to assistant operations superintendent with a 5% increase in the employee’s current salary. This person would then have the opportunity to job shadow Jeff and learn the job. Commissioner Erickson moved to move forward with the succession plan of the Public Works Operations Superintendent, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  The motion passed unanimously.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported on meeting with department heads, banners on central, department head meetings starting this week, opening the transfer station on Saturdays starting July 18th through September, Clean up week is September 14-18, need to work on tree growth in alleyways, and drawing up agreements in writing instead of verbal agreements.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Attorney Martineck reported on the applications for the City Engineer position and would like to continue posting for another two weeks.

Finance Director Richter welcomed Brandy Johnson, City Hall Administrative Assistant and Tina Current, Public Works Administrative Assistant.

Chad Petersen gave a brief overview of the construction projects – Seal Coat has been completed, continue working on the underground on 5th Avenue NW on track with completion deadlines for Phase I, PFP concrete flood walls have been completed.

Commissioner Gulmon has met with Finance Director Richter to review the City’s finances and will continue to do so monthly. Also met with Jennifer Feist with the VCBC Development Corporation.

Commissioner Bishop welcomed the new police officer and thanks to all the officers for their work.

President Carlsrud thanked the new police officer for coming to our community and being interested in law enforcement. Thanks to Paige Bjornson for stepping up and serving on the Visitors Committee. City employees are working in the hot weather, be aware of the workers in work zones.

Adjourn at 5:37 PM

6/23/2020 City Commission Minutes

The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public were not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/98694073301?pwd=VjRWZlhVNWJ0QjhvWUFFbDh3WUdvdz09) Password 4tTbXr or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 986 9407 3301 Password 534462

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the June 16, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Raffle Permit for D&C Home Improvement

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Elect Vice President to City Commission
City Auditor Richter reported that Commissioner Magnuson was elected Vice President by ballot.

Approve Reorganization of Commissioner’s Portfolios

Portfolio Board Member
Finance Commissioner Gulmon
Public Works: Streets, Sanitation, Sewer, Water Distribution Commissioner Erickson
Public Works: Electric & Water Treatment Plant President Carlsrud
Police/Fire Commissioner Bishop
Buildings/Grounds Commissioner Magnuson

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the portfolios, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. The motion passed unanimously.

Appoint and approve Commissioner assignments to additional committees and boards

Committee/Board Number of Commissioners Assigned Board Member
Valley City Planning & Zoning Commission 2 commissioners President Carlsrud Commissioner Bishop
Commissioner Erickson
Valley City Library Board 1 commissioner Commissioner Gulmon
City County Health Board 1 commissioner Commissioner Bishop President Carlsrud
Barnes County Planning & Zoning Commission 2 commissioners President Carlsrud Commissioner Bishop Commissioner Erickson
Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation 2 commissioners Commissioner Bishop Commissioner Gulmon
Board for Community Service 1 commissioner Commissioner Magnuson  

President Carlsrud reported change from Commissioner Bishop will serve on the Planning and Zoning Boards instead of President Carlsrud; President Carlsrud will serve on City County Health instead of Commissioner Bishop. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve as amended, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Consider de-obligating approximately $350,000 SWC funds for 7th Ave NW Water Main 100 project.
Chad Petersen from KLJ that 7th Avenue NW was bid in April 2019 but bids were high. In January 2020, the City Commission reviewed the R&R fund and determined the project should be deferred to 2021 construction (at that time, the City Commission was expecting Prairie Dog funding available and $350,000 grant from SWC for water mains). Since then, the State Water Commission is looking to de-obligate funds for projects that local government does not expect to be completed in 2021.Chad Petersen from KLJ does not expect the City will be able to fund the local share of the project in 2021.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the de-obligation, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Petersen reported that the State Water Commission is looking for reports on the anticipated reimbursements as well as any carry-over requests for reimbursement. Commissioner Magnuson asked if this project needs to wait for Prairie Dog funding. Chad Petersen from KLJ agreed further discussion is needed to determine funding priorities in future.

The motion passed unanimously.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford continues to meet with city staff and departments

City Updates & Commission Reports

Building/Fire Inspector Andersen reported the City held a pre-construction meeting with Love’s.

Fire Chief Magnuson stated 4th of July will be here soon; sales begin June 27 – July 5. Don’t shoot until July 1. Census – please complete.

City Attorney Martineck reported the Assistant Fire Chief position was posted in-house. The position closes this week. Martineck expects to post the City Engineer position to post tomorrow; goal to have decision made by end of July.

President Carlsrud thanked elected officials for serving and encouraged members of the public to serve.

Adjourn at 5:19 PM

06/16/2020 City Commission Minutes

The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public were not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/97914864324?pwd=WU9HcjJhSDVaZmwvRnQxQjVkWmlxZz09) Password 9PhqpQ or listen by calling (1 253 215 8782) Webinar ID: 979 1486 4324 Password 481130

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. President Carlsrud presented Commissioner Powell with a plaque for his years of service to the City Commission (2017-2020). President Carlsrud stated that tomorrow’s COVID-19 briefing will be the last for the foreseeable future.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

Approval of Agenda – Addition of Consent B & C; O2

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from June 2, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Powell. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Renewal Application for Cabaret License for F.O.E. Aerie 2192
  2. Approve Tree Trimming & Removal Service License for GS Services
  3. Approve Raffle Permit for SHINE

Commissioner Powell moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Public Hearing

Public Hearing for Mobile Vendors and Transient Merchants Licensing

President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open. City Attorney Martineck stated the questions began over a year ago for licensing of mobile vendors. Martineck drafted an ordinance that addresses door-to-door solicitation as well as those who setup along boulevards. Planning & Zoning Commission reviewed and made 5 recommendations. Martineck stated this is the first reading, a second reading will be held in July in conjunction with a Resolution to set fees. Martineck clarified that the farmers market is already exempt by ordinance. Commissioner Powell and Commissioner Bishop discussed specific agricultural examples that setup in parking lots. City Attorney Martineck stated Planning & Zoning recommends a ten day window in which permits are valid. Commissioner Powell requests agricultural products be exempt from the permitting process. Commissioner Bishop wants the permitting for the food trucks. City Attorney Martineck confirmed that the sale of food products door to door will require a transient merchant permit.

City Attorney Martineck stated if the City Commission agrees with the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendations as well that the produce stands will be exempt, then he will proceed preparing materials for the second reading.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to close hearing, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1060, an ordinance to amend and reenact Chapter 5 of Title 8 and Section 11-05-18 of the Valley City Municipal Code, relating to mobile vendors and transient merchants.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1060, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Ordinance

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1059, an Ordinance Relating to the Annexation of Territory described as Auditor’s Lot Number 1 of the NE1/4 of the SW ¼ of Section 27, Township 140, Range 58, Barnes County, ND

City Attorney Martineck stated there were no changes since the first reading. This ordinance is to annex the access road to Waterfront Meadows. Commissioner Erickson moved to approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1059, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1061, an Ordinance to Adopt and Enact Section 1-01-15 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to Crime Victim Witness Fee

City Attorney Martineck reported that the City has imposed a crime victim witness fee in 2017, the section was repealed inadvertently during the recodification process and this ordinance will re-instate the section. Commissioner Powell moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1061, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Receive the Barnes County Official Canvassed Abstract and the Certificate of Election from the Primary Election held on June 9, 2020

City Auditor Richter provided the report from the election:

City Auditor Richter reported the Ordinance to Extend City Sales, Use and Gross Receipts dedicated to Fund Permanent Flood Protection will be presented at the next meeting for first reading.

Approve 2020 – 2021 Gaming Site Authorizations for the following:

  1. North Dakota Winter Show at North Dakota Winter Show Event Center
  2. Valley City Eagles Aerie 2192 Fraternal Order of Eagles at the Eagles; Captain’s Pub; Labor Club; My Bar; City Lights; Tavern 94

City Auditor Richter stated these are annual renewals. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Appointment for the following committees and terms:

  1. Zoning Board of Adjustment (Variance) – 3 openings, 3 year term
    1. Allen Schuldt
    1. Ken Reid
    1. Jim Wright
  2. Visitors Committee – 3 openings, 4 year term
    1. Bobby Koepplin
    1. Mary Lee Nielson
    1. Vacancy

City Auditor Richter stated the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Visitors Committee openings are renewed terms – the openings are not advertised when a member agrees to continue. The vacancy on the Visitors Committee will be advertised until July 6.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Discuss Urban Road Funding Request for Streetscape Phase II

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated that bids were opened in April 2020, and the project was over budget on the local share. Petersen reported a letter was sent requesting the transfer of $500,000 of Urban Roads funds to this project. Petersen has not received a response from NDDOT regarding this request. This provides the City up to an additional $625,000 for the project ($125,000 additional local share) KLJ will look at the sidewalk improvements to determine what can be deferred and then present to NDDOT for approval. KLJ is also considering having VCPW install the lighting in City Park. Petersen stated that with cost savings and additional funding, this project should be able to move forward. KLJ will resubmit project plans with the adjustments for Commission approval. KLJ plans to bid project in October or November 2020.

City Auditor Richter stated the City will need to look at the R&R fund to review timing and priority of projects.  

Approve Change Order #1, Project No. SU-2-990(059) – 5th Ave NW Reconstruction

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated the Change Order #1 is for the lighting on 5th Avenue NW that will be installed by VCPW with an additional cost for on-site coordination with the contractor. This change order also allows the contractor to reclaim the asphalt which is a cost savings to the City. At this point, savings is 100% to the City as the federal funding cap on the project has already been met. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the change order, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Change Order #2, Project No. SU-2-990(059) – 5th Ave NW Reconstruction

Chad Petersen from KLJ reviewed the report which indicated:    

Sanitary Sewer Service Connection Saddle Wye Option:Plan note 724-P11 states that sanitary sewer service connections from 13+00 to 29+00 will be connected to existing main by removing a section of the main at the service location and installing a wye by using sewer couplings to connect to the main. After the project was bid KPH proposed using a saddle wye connected directly to the pipe lining for the sanitary services at those locations. The Project Engineer and Valley City Public Works were in agreement that this would be an acceptable alternative. Due to the decrease in labor and material a new price of $1,820.00 EA was agreed upon for the services in these locations. This will result in a deduction of 31 – Sanitary Sewer Service Connections at $2,350. EA and an addition of 31 – Reconnect to Existing Sanitary Sewer Service at $1,820.00 EA. For a net project savings of $16,430. The sanitary sewer service connections from station 29+00 to station 37+00 will be installed per plan and paid for under the original bid item.

Sanitary Sewer Conflict Structures:

While installing storm sewer at station 15+10 it was discovered that the joined sanitary sewer service for house #226 and 236 will conflict with the storm sewer and be unable to connect to the existing main.

KPH, Project Engineer, and Valley City Public Works agreed upon installing a conflict structure on each 24” storm sewer run. The conflict structures result in a net project cost increase of $10,956.22. As a part of this Change Order, KPH is also requesting a contract extension of 2 days due to the delay incurred by the conflict.

Commissioner Powell moved to approve Change Order #2, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Renewal Applications for the following Alcoholic Beverage Licenses:

  1. Brockopp Brewing, LLC
  2. The Captains Pub
  3. Chinese Palace
  4. Hi-Line Hospitality, LLC dba City Lights
  5. Dakota Silver, LLC
  6. F.O.E. Aerie 2192
  7. Jimmy’s Pizza
  8. Sabir’s Dining & Lounge
  9. Main Street Off-Sale, LLC dba Tavern 94
  10. The Labor Club
  11. County Bottle Shop, Inc dba the Liquor Locker
  12. Valley City Town & Country Club
  13. VC Developers LLC dba Bridges Bar & Grill
  14. Woodland Lodge LLC dba Woodland Steakhouse

City Auditor Richter stated application and materials were completed. Police Chief Hatcher granted a COVID waiver for server training as VCPD has not offered the class during the closures. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the renewal applications, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Discuss Renewal Applications for the following Alcoholic Beverage Licenses:

  1. Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg
  2. My Bar
  3. The Clubhouse Lounge LLC

City Auditor Richter reported Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg & My Bar are now in compliance. Police Chief Hatcher inquired if the Clubhouse Lounge LLC needs to have updated signage as it is no longer holds a Club license. City Attorney Martineck has not received a response from the license holder. Martineck did not believe the licensing should not be held up, but that the issue should be raised.

Commissioner Erickson asked if the Legion is still using the basement. No definitive answer provided.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the renewal applications, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Renewal Applications for the following Retail Tobacco Licenses:

  1. Casey’s General Store #3363 dba Casey’s Retail Company
    1. CHS Inc. dba Dakota Plains Ag (807 Main St)
    1. Dakota Silver, LLC
    1. DG Retail, LLC dba Dollar General Store #17856
    1. Farmers Union Oil Company of Moorhead, MN dba PetroServe USA #071
    1. Leevers Foods, Inc (424 2nd Ave NE)
    1. Leevers Foods, Inc (148 S Central Ave)
    1. County Bottle Shop, Inc dba the Liquor Locker
    1. Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg
  • And authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all licensing requirements before June 30, 2020
  1. Brothers III
    1. CHS Inc dba Dakota Plains Ag (151 9th Ave NW)
    1. F.O.E. Aerie 2192
    1. Family Dollar, Inc. dba Family Dollar #27662

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve renewal applications, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported she is meeting department heads and employees.

City Update & Commission Reports

City Auditor Richter reported Chris George from John Deere has been in contact with Chad Petersen from KLJ, Jeff Differding for new curb and gutter as well as driveway aprons. They have requested 25% reduction from R&R fund, at estimated total cost of $30,000 with cap at $7,500. City Auditor Richter reported they had protested the paving improvement project out previously. Consensus to proceed.

City Auditor Richter has provided budget working papers to the Department Heads from the general government funds. Richter has asked for consideration when impacts are known from COVID-19 and lower oil prices.

Fire Chief Magnuson thanked Commissioner Powell for his service. Please complete your Census survey!

Chad Petersen from KLJ reported PFP Phase III by the Master Lift Station is down to the last few pours, with staining and veneers to follow. Phase IIA is complete. 5th Avenue NW progresses well. Seal coat work will be finished; initial sweeping has occurred with final sweeping to occur this Thursday.

City Auditor Richter reported there will be a City Commission meeting next Tuesday at 5:00 PM.

City Administrator Crawford reported the 5th Avenue NE repair will occur and money has been reallocated from other VCPW capital projects.

Commissioner Erickson thanked Emma & Ross for service.

Commissioner Powell thanked employees for work and making things look easy.

Commissioner Bishop congratulated Dick. Thanked Ross for service.

Commissioner Magnuson congratulated Mike & Dick. Thanked Ross for service. Looking forward to Summer Nights on Central; enjoy your community and shop local. Magnuson thanked Emma for her work.

President Carlsrud stated oil extraction tax is projected to be low. Carlsrud echoed thank yous. Please be cautious while driving. Carlsrud thanked elected officials for participating. 1 of 11 citizens need to participate to fill positions on boards/communities.

Adjourn at 6:37 PM.